The South African limited-overs side has seemingly been caught in a far from ideal position, as the team management and head coach Mark Boucher have some important decisions to make, ahead of the white-ball series against India, which commences on Wednesday.
The Proteas are scheduled to play three T20Is followed by three ODI games against the Men in Blue, just before the T20 World Cup, which begins on October 16.
The dilemma currently plaguing the South African side is one of prioritisation, as they must decide whether to emphasise on their preparation for the upcoming marquee event, or on the 50-over games, as they risk not qualifying for next year’s ODI World Cup. The Proteas could decide to take the challenge head-on and try to do both things at once, but that would risk injury to important players, something that could derail their chances at the World T20.
However, head coach and legendary former wicket-keeper Mark Boucher does not seem to be too concerned about the situation, saying that he views his entire white-ball side as one unit consisting of 19-20 players and not as two separate sides.
“So if it is resting players or giving opportunities to players… I see the squad that is going with us – maybe 19, 20 players – I don’t see it like a T20 squad or a one-day squad. I look at opportunities throughout 20 individuals that we just need to manage and get them in the best space for the T20 World Cup,”
he stated.
With only four victories from 13 games, South Africa is now ranked 11th in the ODI Super League. To make matters worse, the side’s withdrawal from the ODI series in Australia in early 2023 means that they will forfeit all their Super League points for the series.
Considering that only the top eight teams in the league are eligible for direct qualification, the current situation endangers their chances of qualifying for the ODI World Cup in India.
To secure the final two berths in the ten-team event, the bottom five teams and the Associates will compete in the World Cup Qualifier, a situation South Africa could potentially see themselves in if they fail to do well in the 50-over format.
“It is a massive World Cup for us, and I am really looking forward to it, and I know the players are looking forward to it too.
It is a very strong squad as well, and it is a massive opportunity for us, and we have the players to push for a great outcome in the World Cup.”
Boucher said, while speaking about his side’s prospects in the T20 World Cup.
